Crolla Looking to Beat Linares

Tonight, at the Manchester Arena, Anthony Crolla will be making his third defence of his WBA lightweight title.

The fight, against Jorge Linares, is being acknowledged as the hardest fight the Manchester fighter has taken.

The last time the Venezuelan fighter visited these shores he stopped the very capable Kevin Mitchell in ten rounds.

However Crolla, who weighed in at three pounds heavier than his opponent, is of the belief he can rise to the occasion and that he has spotted some flaws in his challengers style with the likeable Crolla remarking to the media ahead of the fight tonight,

‘I rate Linares very highly but I genuinely believe I’ll have an answer for whatever he shows me.

‘He’s technically brilliant and I’ve got to be switched on from the opening bell. He’s a very good counter-puncher, so I know I can’t be lazy at any stage.

‘He likes to fight at his pace and I can’t allow that. I’ve got to take advantage of some weaknesses that I think I’ve seen there. I’m confident I can do that.

‘Kevin Mitchell was seconds away from winning but Jorge dragged himself off the floor and came from behind to get the stoppage. That’s what true champions do.’

Since winning the WBA belt Crolla has stepped up to the mark every time he?s been asked to, can the Mancunian beat Linares tonight, I wouldn?t bet against it.